Katherine Bennell-Pegg offered space seat for 2028 ISS mission
Katherine Bennell-Pegg is Australian of the Year. She would become the first astronaut under the Australian flag to reach space.
The federal government has offered Katherine Bennell-Pegg to the European Space Agency. The mission would go to the International Space Station in 2028.
Katherine Bennell-Pegg finished astronaut training with the ESA in 2024. Katherine Bennell-Pegg is director of space technology at the Australian Space Agency.
If the mission happens, she will be the first Australian astronaut to fly under the Australian flag. Philanthropists have pledged over $6 million in cash and other support.
Some state governments are also pledging backing. Science minister Tim Ayres said the government is working with the private sector.
They are exploring other funding sources too. South Australia, home to the space agency, has publicly committed to supporting the mission.
- 2028
- Mission year
- 2024
- Training completed
- Over $6 million
- Philanthropic pledges
Why it mattersA successful mission would put Australia on the world space map. It would also inspire young Australians to pursue science and technology careers.
AustraliaAustralia would gain a major boost in the space industry and international standing; space achievements inspire STEM learning across the country.
Corroborated byinnovationaus.com
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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